2025 Aylesford Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Nestled along the tranquil River Medway in Kent, England, Aylesford is a charming village brimming with history, natural beauty, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply in need of a relaxing escape, Aylesford offers an unforgettable experience. ✨ Step Back in Time 🕰️ Aylesford’s rich history dates back to the early medieval period, and its iconic landmarks bring centuries of stories to life. One of the village’s highlights is the stunning Aylesford Priory, once home to the Carmelite Friars. Wander through the peaceful grounds, visit the serene chapel, and explore the surrounding river views that have witnessed centuries of history. The village itself is a lovely blend of cobblestone streets and historic buildings, making it feel like stepping back in time. 🏛️ Embrace Nature’s Beauty 🌳 For those who crave the outdoors, Aylesford is a nature lover’s paradise. Stroll along the River Medway, enjoy a scenic boat ride, or explore the picturesque countryside. The nearby Leybourne Lakes Country Park offers the perfect setting for a relaxing day out with family, complete with lakeside walks and birdwatching opportunities. It’s a tranquil escape that lets you connect with nature at every turn. 🚣♀️🦋 A Taste of Village Life 🍰 Aylesford’s quaint cafes, charming pubs, and bustling markets allow visitors to experience true English village life. Indulge in homemade pastries at a local bakery or enjoy a traditional English pint at one of the village’s cozy pubs. The friendly atmosphere invites you to slow down, unwind, and soak in the simple joys of life. 🍻🍰 An Easy Day Trip from London 🚆 Only an hour’s drive or a short train ride from London, Aylesford makes for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Escape the city for a relaxing retreat in the heart of Kent’s countryside. 🏡 Whether exploring historical landmarks, enjoying scenic walks, or savoring local delicacies, Aylesford is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. ✨ #aylesfordtrip

#aylesfordtrip If you’re traveling with kids, Adventure Kidz is a fantastic indoor play center to keep them entertained. It’s spacious, well-maintained, and packed with exciting activities, from giant slides and climbing frames to trampolines and soft play areas. What I really appreciated was the separate toddler section, which made it a safe and enjoyable experience for little ones. The staff were friendly, and there were plenty of seating areas for parents to relax while the kids burned off energy. The on-site café serves decent food and drinks, making it convenient for families to spend a few hours here. It can get quite busy, especially on weekends, but the atmosphere is lively and fun. If you need a break from sightseeing and want to give the kids a chance to run wild, Adventure Kidz is a great option in Aylesford.

#aylesfordtrip Visiting The Friars was a peaceful and enriching experience. Nestled by the River Medway, this ancient Carmelite priory exudes history and serenity. The beautifully preserved medieval buildings, tranquil gardens, and the stunning chapel create a perfect retreat from modern life. Walking through the grounds, I felt a deep sense of calm, and the on-site café provided a lovely spot for quiet reflection. Whether you’re religious or simply appreciate history, this place offers a unique glimpse into England’s spiritual past. The small gift shop sells handmade pottery and religious artifacts, adding a nice touch to the visit. Attending one of their retreats or just spending a quiet afternoon here is highly recommended. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the beauty of the surroundings, makes The Friars a hidden gem in Kent. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and recharge, this is the perfect spot.

#aylesfordtrip Address: The Friars, Aylesford ME20 7BX, United Kingdom 🇬🇧 The Friars Aylesford Priory is an ancient religious house of Order of Carmelites dating back to the 13th century. Over the centuries and in recent years. The Friars Aylesford Priory has become, through popular support, a great center of pilgrimage and a place of ecumenical activity. Today, many thousands come for business meetings or conferences, and some simply to soak in the spectacular atmosphere and grounds covering over 40 acres, The Friars Aylesford Priory becomes sanctuary for quiet reflection and somewhere for families to enjoy a picnic in the leafy surroundings by a lake. Open daily from time: 9:00am to 17:00pm. #friarsaylesfordpriory #visitaylesford

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford for Cycling & Outdoor Adventures 🚴♂️🌳 (Explore the countryside, cycle through scenic routes, and enjoy nature! 🚵♀️🌿) Day 1: Scenic Cycling & Riverside Beauty 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at Kits Coty Glamping – A Unique Stay in Nature ⛺ 🥐 Brunch at The Curious Eatery – A Quirky, Cozy Café with Fresh Bakes ☕ 📍 Morning: Cycle the Pilgrims’ Way – A Historic Trail with Stunning Views 🚴 📍 Afternoon: Explore Hucking Estate – Woodland Trails & Wildflower Meadows 🌼 🍽️ Lunch at The Victoria Inn – A Cyclist-Friendly Pub with Great Grub 🍻 🌙 Dinner at The Walnut Tree – A Warm, Welcoming Gastropub 🍽️ Day 2: More Adventures & Relaxing River Views 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – A Local Favorite for Brunch 🥞 📍 Morning: Canoeing Along the Medway – Peaceful Paddle with Stunning Scenery 🚣♂️ 📍 Afternoon: Visit Cobtree Manor Park – A Lovely Green Space for a Picnic 🌳 🍽️ Lunch at The Waterside Bar & Grill – A Riverside Gem with Local Dishes 🍷 🚖 Departure – Feeling Energized & Reconnected with Nature! 🌿

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford for Hidden Castles & Medieval History 🏰🛡️ (Step back in time with ancient ruins, secret castles, and legendary tales! 📜⚔️) Day 1: Hidden Ruins & Historic Charm 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Bull Hotel – A Traditional Coaching Inn 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Blackthorn Trust – A Café Supporting a Local Charity ☕ 📍 Morning: Visit the Forgotten Castle Ruins of Thurnham Keep 🏰 📍 Afternoon: Explore All Saints Church – One of Kent’s Oldest Churches ⛪ 🍽️ Lunch at The Dirty Habit – A Pub with Links to Pilgrims & Smugglers 🍗 🌙 Dinner at The George & Dragon – A 13th-Century Inn with Candlelit Dinners 🍷 Day 2: Secret History & Rural Beauty 🍞 Breakfast at The Friars – A Peaceful Morning Walk Through the Grounds 🌳 📍 Morning: Secret WWII Bunker Tour – Aylesford’s Hidden Military Past 🏗️ 📍 Afternoon: Leeds Castle Falconry Display – See Majestic Birds of Prey 🦅 🍽️ Lunch at The Windmill – A Charming Village Pub with Local Dishes 🍽️ 🚖 Departure – Feeling Like You Just Walked Through History! ⏳

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford for Riverside Retreat & Spa Lovers 💆♀️🌿 (Slow down, unwind, and reconnect with nature & relaxation! 🛶💦) Day 1: Serene River & Spa Bliss 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at Chilston Park Hotel – A Grand Countryside Retreat 🏨 🥐 Brunch at The Tithe Barn – A Picturesque Café in a Historic Barn ☕ 📍 Morning: Canoeing on the River Medway – Peaceful Paddle Through Nature 🚣♀️ 📍 Afternoon: Aqua Sana Spa at Longford – Thermal Pools & Massages 💆♂️ 🌙 Dinner at The Swan – Fine Dining with a View of the Medway 🍽️ Day 2: Garden Walks & Tranquil Moments 🍞 Breakfast at The Friars – A Serene Morning by the Monastery 🌿 📍 Morning: Explore Manor Park Country Park – Woodland Walks & Lakeside Views 🦢 📍 Afternoon: Picnic at Allington Lock – A Beautiful Riverside Spot 🧺 🍽️ Lunch at The Waterside Café – Light Bites with a Scenic View ☕ 🚖 Departure – Feeling Relaxed, Rejuvenated & Ready for the Week! 😌

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford for Mystical & Haunted Adventures 👻🏰 (Perfect for history buffs who love eerie legends & haunted sites! 🔮🌙) Day 1: Ghostly Tales & Medieval Mysteries 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Dog & Bear Hotel – A Cozy, Historic Inn 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Moat Tea Rooms – A Gothic-Style Café with Handmade Cakes 🍰 📍 Morning: Visit The Friars – A Medieval Monastery with Spiritual Energy ✝️ 📍 Afternoon: Leeds Castle Ghost Tour – Explore the Haunted Halls & Dungeons 👻 🌙 Dinner at The Black Horse Inn – A Historic Pub with a Mysterious Past 🍽️ Day 2: Secret Underground & Haunted Walks 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – A Cozy Morning Start ☕ 📍 Morning: Chislehurst Caves – Ancient, Eerie Underground Tunnels 🕳️ 📍 Afternoon: Ghost Walk at Rochester Castle – Tales of Spirits & Lost Souls 🏰 🍽️ Lunch at The George Vaults – A Medieval Vault-Turned-Restaurant 🍷 🚖 Departure – Wondering if you saw a ghost or just the wind… 👀👻

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford for Foodies & Local Markets 🍽️🛍️ (Indulge in farm-fresh treats, artisanal goodies, and historic pubs! 🍷🍞) Day 1: Gourmet Discoveries & Riverside Dining 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Black Horse Inn – A Cozy Country Stay 🏨 🥐 Brunch at The Little Old Toll House – A Charming Café with Homemade Cakes ☕ 📍 Morning: Aylesford Farmers’ Market – Local Cheeses, Jams & Fresh Produce 🛍️ 🍽️ Lunch at The Hengist – A Historic Tudor Restaurant with Elegant Dishes 🍷 📍 Afternoon: Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting at Mereworth Wines 🍇 🌙 Dinner at The Chequers Inn – A Riverside Pub with Local Ales & Seasonal Menus 🍽️ Day 2: Farm-to-Table Experiences & Sweet Treats 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – Famous for Their Homemade Pastries 🥞 📍 Morning: Taywell Farm Shop – Pick Your Own Fruits & Try Artisan Ice Cream 🍓🍦 🍽️ Lunch at The Dirty Habit – A Historic 11th-Century Pub with Kentish Dishes 🍗 🚖 Departure – Satisfied & Full of Delicious Memories! 😋

#aylesfordtrip 🛶 Aylesford for Hidden Waterways & Secret Gardens – 2 Days, 1 Night (Perfect for those who love off-the-beaten-path riverside adventures and peaceful gardens! 🌿🚣♂️) ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Riverside Charm & Hidden Nature Trails 🌊 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Friars Guesthouse – A Historic Stay in a Tranquil Setting 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Chequers Inn – A Cozy Riverside Pub with a Hearty English Breakfast ☕ 📍 Morning: Secret Waterways Kayaking – Explore the Medway’s Hidden Spots 🚣♂️ • 🌊 Paddle through peaceful stretches of the river • 🦆 Spot local wildlife along the quiet banks 📍 Afternoon: Little Gem Garden – A Hidden Botanical Escape 🌸 • 🌿 Wander through colorful flower beds & relaxing green spaces 🍽️ Lunch at The Bush, Blackbird & Thrush – A Quaint Countryside Pub with Local Ales 🍽️ 📍 Evening: Sunset Walk at Leybourne Lakes Country Park 🌅 • 🦢 A scenic walk with a chance to see swans & other wildlife 🌙 Dinner at The Hengist – A Beautifully Restored Tudor Restaurant with Gourmet Dishes 🍷 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: Hidden History & Riverside Relaxation 🏰 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – A Lovely Café with Homemade Pastries ☕ 📍 Morning: Explore Eccles Roman Villa – A Lesser-Known Ancient Site 🏛️ • 🏺 Discover Roman mosaics & history tucked away in Kent’s countryside 📍 Afternoon: Picnic & Relaxation by the River Medway 🌳 • 🧺 Grab local treats & enjoy a slow, scenic picnic 🍽️ Lunch at The Dirty Habit – A Rustic 11th-Century Inn with a Cozy Atmosphere 🍽️ 🚖 Departure – Feeling Refreshed & Rejuvenated from a Hidden Gem Escape! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip (Explore the Medway by kayak, relax by the water & enjoy the riverside charm! 🌊🚤) ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Water Sports & Scenic Views 🌊 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Lower Bell Inn – A Cozy Riverside Stay 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Little Old Toll House – A Lovely Spot Overlooking the River ☕ 📍 Morning: Kayaking on the Medway – A Fun & Relaxing Adventure 🚣♂️ • 🌊 Paddle through calm waters & spot local wildlife 📍 Afternoon: Teapot Island – A Riverside Museum & Café with the World’s Largest Teapot Collection 🍵 🍽️ Lunch at The Bush, Blackbird & Thrush – A Classic Pub with Riverside Views 🍽️ 📍 Evening: Sunset Boat Ride on the Medway – A Peaceful End to the Day ⛵ 🌙 Dinner at The Hengist – A Riverside Dining Experience with Delicious Food 🍷 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: More Water Adventures & Relaxation 🌅 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – Fresh Pastries & Local Coffee ☕ 📍 Morning: Paddleboarding or Fishing at Leybourne Lakes Country Park 🎣 • 🌿 A great way to start the morning with peaceful lake views 📍 Afternoon: Lunch at The Chequers Inn – A Perfect End to the Trip 🍽️ 🚖 Departure – Feeling Refreshed & Recharged! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip 🍇 Aylesford for Food & Wine Lovers – 2 Days, 1 Night (Taste local Kent wines, indulge in farm-to-table dining & explore delicious hidden spots! 🍷🍽️) 🗓️ Day 1: Vineyard Tours & Riverside Dining 🍷 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at Kits Coty Glamping – A Scenic Vineyard Stay 🍇 🥞 Brunch at The Chequers Inn – A Riverside Spot with a Great English Breakfast ☕ 📍 Morning: Vineyard Tour at Yotes Court Winery – Award-Winning Local Wines 🍇 • 🍷 Try delicious English sparkling wines & learn about the wine-making process 📍 Afternoon: Kent Life Heritage Farm – A Rustic Experience with Fresh Local Produce 🚜 • 🧀 Try cheeses, jams & local farm delicacies 🍽️ Lunch at The Black Horse Inn – A Charming Pub with Traditional Kentish Dishes 🍖 📍 Evening: Riverside Wine Tasting at The Dirty Habit – A Relaxing End to the Day 🍷 🌙 Dinner at The Hengist – A Fine Dining Experience with Seasonal Dishes 🍽️ ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: More Tasting & Countryside Charm 🧀 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – A Cozy Café with Homemade Pastries ☕ 📍 Morning: Cheese & Cider Tour at Charrington’s Farm – A Taste of Local Flavors 🧀🍏 • 🥂 Try freshly made cider & delicious Kent cheeses 📍 Afternoon: Afternoon Tea at Teapot Island – A Quirky Café with 8,000+ Teapots! 🍰 🚖 Departure – Full of Amazing Flavors & Local Delights! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip 🎭 Aylesford for Arts & Crafts Lovers – 2 Days, 1 Night (Get creative with pottery, explore artisan markets & dive into the artistic side of Aylesford! 🎨🖌️) ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Exploring Art & Handmade Crafts 🏺 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Friars Guesthouse – A Stay in a Historic Setting 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Hengist – A Quaint Café with a Vintage Vibe ☕ 📍 Morning: Aylesford Pottery Workshop – Create Your Own Handmade Piece 🏺 • 🎭 Try pottery-making at one of the oldest working potteries in England 📍 Afternoon: Visit West Malling Artisan Market (if available) 🛍️ • 🎨 Browse handmade crafts, jewelry & local artwork 🍽️ Lunch at The Little Old Toll House – A Perfect Spot for a Relaxing Meal 🍲 📍 Evening: The Hazlitt Theatre in Maidstone – Catch a Local Play or Music Show 🎭 🌙 Dinner at The Dirty Habit – A Beautiful 11th-Century Inn 🍷 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: Creative Spaces & Art Trails 🎨 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – A Delightful Start to the Day ☕ 📍 Morning: The Friars Art Exhibition – Local & Historical Artworks 🖼️ • 🎨 Discover stunning paintings, sculptures & religious artifacts 📍 Afternoon: Outdoor Sculpture Trail in Maidstone – A Hidden Art Walk 🏛️ • 🏺 A peaceful & creative way to end the trip 🍽️ Lunch at Frederic Bistro – A French Café with a Cozy Atmosphere 🥐 🚖 Departure – Feeling Inspired & Ready to Create! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip 🏞️ Aylesford for Scenic Walks & Hidden Gems – 2 Days, 1 Night (Perfect for those who love peaceful countryside strolls, hidden trails, and stunning river views! 🚶♀️🌿) ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Riverside Charm & Nature Trails 🌊 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Lower Bell Inn – A Cozy Stay with a Countryside Feel 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Chequers Inn – A Historic Pub Overlooking the River ☕ 📍 Morning: A Stroll Through Aylesford’s Historic Village 🏡 • 🌉 Cross the medieval Aylesford Bridge • ⛪ Visit The Friars Priory for peaceful gardens & history 📍 Afternoon: Peters Village & Snodland Riverside Walk 🚶♀️ • 🌊 Enjoy quiet paths along the Medway with scenic river views 🍽️ Lunch at The Village Pantry – A Quaint Café with Homemade Bakes 🍰 📍 Evening: Sunset at Boxley Warren Nature Reserve 🌅 • 🌳 A peaceful woodland spot with breathtaking sunset views 🌙 Dinner at The Black Horse – A Rustic Pub with Local Ales 🍻 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: Woodlands & Waterfalls 🌲 🍞 Breakfast at The Little Old Toll House – A Cozy Start to the Day ☕ 📍 Morning: Hike to Kits Coty House – A Mysterious Ancient Megalithic Site 🏺 • 🏛️ Explore this Neolithic burial chamber & its surrounding trails 📍 Afternoon: Wouldham & Burham Marshes – A Wildlife Lover’s Dream 🦢 • 🌾 Spot rare birds & enjoy the quiet beauty of the Kent countryside 🍽️ Lunch at The Bush, Blackbird & Thrush – A Cozy, Traditional Pub 🍽️ 🚖 Departure – A Hidden Gem Trip Full of Tranquility & Nature! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford is a village and civil parish on the River Medway in Kent, England, 4 miles northwest of Maidstone. It is full of attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of these attractions. - The Friars: A significant religious site, The Friars is a peaceful retreat offering beautiful grounds and historical buildings. -Kit's Coty House: This historic site features ancient megalithic structures and offers a glimpse into the area's prehistoric past. - Adventure Kidz: A fun-filled playground perfect for families with children, offering various activities to keep the little ones entertained. - St. Peter & St. Paul's Church: A historic church with beautiful architecture and a serene atmosphere. - Dempsey Corner Orchards: A lovely spot for fruit picking and enjoying the countryside. - Aylesford Lake Beach: Ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. - Lake George Provincial Park: A beautiful park offering outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature. - De Weever's Wovens: A speciality and gift shop where you can find unique woven items and local crafts. - Aylesford Pottery: A peaceful place to visit, known for its pottery and serene environment. - Oaklawn Farm Zoo: A family-friendly zoo with a variety of animals and attractions, perfect for a day out with kids. Do not miss out on visiting and enjoying the attractions of this small village! #myhiddengems

#aylesfordtrip 🌳 Aylesford for Outdoor & Adventure Lovers – 2 Days, 1 Night (Hiking, cycling, and stunning countryside – the perfect active getaway! 🚴♂️🏞️)* ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Exploring Trails & River Adventures 🚶♀️ 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at Kits Coty Glamping – A Unique Outdoor Stay 🏕️ 🥞 Brunch at The Village Pantry – A Cozy Spot with Great Coffee ☕ 📍 Morning: Hike to Blue Bell Hill – A Scenic Spot with Panoramic Views ⛰️ • 🔭 Overlook the Medway Valley & beyond • 👻 Hear about the ghostly folklore that surrounds this hill 📍 Afternoon: Canoeing on the River Medway – Paddle Through Kent’s Stunning Landscape 🚣♂️ • 🌊 Relaxing, scenic & a great way to explore nature 🍽️ Lunch at The Hengist – A Delicious Meal Before More Exploring 🍲 📍 Evening: Sunset Walk Through Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve 🌅 • 🌻 Wildflower meadows & peaceful trails make for a stunning golden hour 🌙 Dinner at The Black Horse Inn – A Traditional Countryside Pub with Local Ales 🍻 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: More Adventure & Hidden Gems 🚴 🍞 Breakfast at The Little Old Toll House – Start the Day with a River View ☕ 📍 Morning: Cycling Through The Pilgrims’ Way – A Historic Route with Beautiful Scenery 🚴 • 🚴 Follow the same path medieval pilgrims once took through Kent’s countryside 📍 Afternoon: Explore Leybourne Lakes Country Park – A Tranquil Escape 🦆 • 🌊 Try paddleboarding, spot wildlife or enjoy a picnic by the lake 🍽️ Lunch at The Teapot Island – A Quirky Café by the River with a Massive Teapot Collection 🍰 🚖 Departure – Feeling Rejuvenated & Ready for More Adventures! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip 🏰 Aylesford for History & Heritage Lovers – 2 Days, 1 Night (Step back in time with ancient landmarks, medieval ruins & charming village streets! ⏳✨) ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Exploring Aylesford’s Rich History 🏡 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Friars Guesthouse – Stay in a Historic 13th-Century Monastery 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Hengist – A 16th-Century Building with a Cozy Ambiance ☕ 📍 Morning: Discover Aylesford Village – One of England’s Oldest Settlements 🏡 • 🌉 Walk across the stunning Aylesford Bridge, built in medieval times • ⛪ Visit The Friars at Aylesford Priory, a 1242 Carmelite monastery with peaceful gardens 📍 Afternoon: Allington Castle – A Hidden Gem of Kent’s History 🏰 (Private estate, but tours available!) • 👑 Explore the beautiful grounds & hear stories of medieval England 🍽️ Lunch at The Little Old Toll House – A Riverside Gem with Local Flavors 🍲 📍 Evening: A Riverside Walk Along the Medway 🌅 • 🚶 Soak in the views & imagine life centuries ago 🌙 Dinner at The Bush, Blackbird & Thrush – A Traditional 14th-Century English Pub 🍷 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: Castles & Hidden History 🔍 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – A Delightful Spot for a Morning Treat ☕ 📍 Morning: Rochester Castle – One of England’s Best-Preserved Norman Castles 🏰 (30 mins away!) • 🏹 Learn about the legendary battles & sieges this fortress endured 📍 Afternoon: Chatham Historic Dockyard – A Must-Visit for Maritime History ⚓ • 🚢 Explore warships, submarines & old shipbuilding yards 🍽️ Lunch at The Copper Rivet Distillery – Great Food & Historic Ambiance 🍽️ 🚖 Departure – Aylesford’s history leaves you with timeless memories! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip 🌿 for Nature & Riverside Walks – 2 Days, 1 Night (A peaceful countryside escape with scenic walks, historic sites & cozy village vibes! 🍃🏡) ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1: Riverside Strolls & Historic Landmarks 🚶♀️ 🛬 Arrive & Check-in at The Chequers Inn – A Charming Riverside Stay 🏨 🥞 Brunch at The Hengist – A Quaint Café in a 16th-Century Building ☕ 📍 Morning: Explore Aylesford Village – A Picturesque Spot with Medieval Charm 🏡 • 🌉 Walk across the iconic Aylesford Bridge – one of England’s oldest bridges! • ⛪ Visit the Carmelite Priory – a peaceful monastery dating back to the 13th century 📍 Afternoon: Leybourne Lakes Country Park – A Tranquil Escape by the Water 🦢 • 🚣 Kayak, paddleboard, or simply enjoy a lakeside walk • 🌳 Spot birds & wildlife in this scenic nature reserve 🍽️ Lunch at The Little Old Toll House – A Hidden Gem by the River 🍲 📍 Evening: Sunset Walk Along the River Medway 🌅 • 🌿 Relax with riverside views & enjoy the quiet charm of the countryside 🌙 Dinner at The Bush, Blackbird & Thrush – A Historic Pub with Cozy Fires & Hearty Meals 🍷 ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2: Gardens & Hidden Treasures 🌺 🍞 Breakfast at The Village Pantry – Fresh Pastries & Local Coffee ☕ 📍 Morning: Visit Great Comp Garden – A Hidden Gem for Garden Lovers 🌼 • 🌿 Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens & secret pathways • 🏡 Discover the charming garden tea room for a quick cuppa 📍 Afternoon: Blue Bell Hill – A Scenic Viewpoint with Folklore & Legends ⛰️ • 🔭 Take in panoramic views over the Medway Valley • 👻 Hear the eerie local legends of ghostly sightings! 🍽️ Lunch at The Friars Tearoom – A Serene Spot Inside the Priory Grounds 🍰 🚖 Departure – Feeling Recharged from Aylesford’s Peaceful Charm! 🛫

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford Priory, also known as The Friars, is a peaceful and historic site in Kent, offering a spiritual retreat and a beautiful setting for visitors. Founded by the Carmelites in 1242, the priory features stunning chapels, peaceful gardens, and picturesque views along the River Medway. It’s a place of reflection and community, hosting religious services, retreats, and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy walks through the tranquil grounds, explore the religious artwork, and relax at the welcoming tearoom. With its rich heritage and calming atmosphere, Aylesford Priory provides a serene escape for both spiritual seekers and those looking for quiet relaxation.

#aylesfordtrip Aylesford Priory, also known as The Friars, is a peaceful and historic site in Kent, offering a serene setting for reflection and exploration. Founded in 1242 by the Carmelites, the priory features beautiful chapels, tranquil gardens, and a riverside walk along the River Medway. Visitors can explore its rich history, admire religious artwork, and attend services or retreats. The on-site tea room and gift shop provide refreshments and unique souvenirs. With its spiritual atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Aylesford Priory is an ideal destination for those seeking peace, inspiration, or a deeper connection to the area’s religious heritage.

Kit's Coty House and its neighbour, Little Kit's Coty House, are the remains of two megalithic 'dolmen' burial chambers. Kit's Coty is the larger of the two monuments, with three uprights and a massive capstone, while the smaller, Little Kit's Coty (also known as the Countless Stones), is now a jumble of sarsens. Both are located in an open field offering fantastic views across the North Downs and Medway Valley. #unitedkingdom